What is a resolution? Per the dictionary it is a firm decision to do or not do something.
Likewise, when we resolve to do something, it is a firm decision on a course of action.
As the current year winds down and we start to think about the New Year before us, many find this time of year to be the time when they resolve to do things differently or improve themselves in some manner.
Some do it for fun and their heart is not in it.
Others are truly determined to make changes in their life.
Many make resolutions with good intent, but do not follow through with them. Others try hard, but are not able to make them permanent.
Finally, some don’t believe in making New Year’s resolutions as they do not feel the need.
Some of the New Year’s resolutions we make are as follows;
- Get more exercise
- Lose weight
- Quit smoking
- Get more sleep
- Drink more water
- Read more books
- Work harder
- Save more money
- Get a new job
- Learn a new skill
As you can see, it is a human trait to try and improve ourselves. We generally want to be the best we can be. I doubt that anyone would ever make a resolution to gain 200 pounds, become lazier, reduce their skill sets, or go broke.
When we think about our spiritual life, shouldn’t we also resolve to be better?
Here are some resolutions that we can make in an effort to be more like Christ in our daily lives.
Resolutions For Children and Young Adults
- Resolve to never make fun of another child or young person
- Resolve to stand up for and with those who are being bullied or made fun of
- Resolve not to retaliate if you are one who is being picked on or made fun of
- Resolve to accept disappointment with the attitude that tomorrow is another day
- Resolve to learn how to pray, asking God’s help in dealing with the problems of youth
- Resolve to grow closer to your parents and go to them with your problems and concerns
Resolutions for Adults
- Resolve to be kind to everyone you come in contact with
- Resolve to show the love of Christ to all people
- Resolve to live so that everyone will “see Jesus” in your life
- Resolve to grow spiritually and closer to God
- Resolve to be more mindful and worshipful of God each day
- Resolve to be more mindful of those who are less fortunate
- Resolve to help those less fortunate when possible
As 2020 comes to a close, it is a good time to take personal inventory and make changes where necessary.
It is also a good time to take spiritual inventory. With an honest and thorough introspection we should evaluate our spiritual life. What do I need to do differently? What do I need to change? Did I grow spiritually in 2020? How can I grow closer to God?
The only way we improve at anything is through hard work and our spiritual life is no different. Maybe we need to pray and meditate more, study God's word more, or develop more fully a worshipful attitude.
As we enter the New Year, with focus and determination, let us resolve to be what God wants us to be.
RVH